DARK SHADOWS™ Mystic Coneflower

DARK SHADOWS™ Mystic is an upright coneflower whose shell-pink flowers open around a dark cocoa eye, then soften toward antique pink as they age. The plant adds summer color to mixed borders and produces stems suitable for cutting. [Terra Nova Nurseries](https://www.terranovanurseries.com/product/echinacea-dark-shadows-mystic/) [Overdevest Nurseries](https://grownbyoverdevest.com/plant/dark-shadows-mystic-coneflower/) ## Size and Seasonal Display Terra Nova lists a 16-inch plant height, 18-inch spread, and flower stems to about 22 inches, with blooms from July through September and hardiness in USDA zones 4–9. Use it near the front or middle of a border, or repeat it in a mass planting where the dark centers can be seen at close range. The breeder describes the cultivar as attractive to bees and butterflies. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun and average, well-drained garden soil. Terra Nova notes that coarse, slightly mineral soils are preferred and lists average garden moisture. Provide drainage around the crown, especially during wet winter weather. This cultivar is deciduous, so its leaves die back seasonally. ## Maintenance Keep the crown at soil level and avoid planting into a persistently wet spot. Cut flowers as they open for arrangements; remove spent stems when a tidy appearance is preferred. Leave some stems standing temporarily if you want structure before seasonal cleanup.